Former UA forward Grant Jerrett heading to Oklahoma City Thunder

Grant Jerrett's decision to leave Arizona after just one season was met with some skepticism back in April, but the 19-year-old received some sense of vindication at Thursday night's NBA Draft.

Jerrett, who averaged 5.2 points and 3.6 rebounds per game during his freshman campaign in Tucson, was selected with the No. 40 overall pick by the Portland Trail Blazers. He was then shipped to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The former McDonald's All-American is the first UA freshman to be taken in the draft since Jerryd Bayless (Indiana Pacers, 2008).

"I want to congratulate Grant on being selected with the 40th pick by the Portland Trail Blazers tonight," Arizona coach Sean Miller said. "Although he was part of our program for a short period of time, he demonstrated a multitude of talents as a player. His high skill level, strong work ethic and unique size give him a very bright future in the NBA. I'm excited to watch him continue to develop, and I look forward to watching him reach his vast potential."

Jerrett is the 33rd former Arizona player to be taken in the NBA Draft since the format was shortened to two rounds.